Do you have a question about painting furniture? Maybe something regarding an application technique with Chalk Paint or color combination and cannot seem to find your answer any where? Well, look no further! Just shoot me a “Dear Purple Painted Lady” email and I will respond back within a day! (I will also post your question and the answer here for all to see – in case they have the same question as you.) Please email me at takuntz@rochester.rr.com – subject noted as “Dear Purple Painted Lady” Looking forward to hearing from you!
PS here is a little disclaimer and a promise to you! My advice given will be based on my experience. I will not endorse a product I do not believe in – just for the sake of making a buck! I use latex paint – mostly for murals and have my preferences regarding latex. I also use Chalk Paint™ Decorative Paints by Annie Sloan. But like I said, I use latex paint-and LOVE it and have my preferences regarding that (for instance- I will always recommend Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams or Lowes Valspar paint.) Again- I love Latex paint…..but I also use and love Chalk Paint™- I even sell it at my store because I believe in the product that much and am impressed with all of the different ways it can be applied or used. Try making a “lime wash” out of latex. (hoping you sense my sarcasm there!) Anyway- not all of my projects would I use for….I choose the type of paint I use based on the end vision I have for the piece and desired finish I am going for. But I have yet to find latex paint be velvety silkie smooth like Annie Sloan Chalk Paint- but again- they may not be the main requirement of a project!
My website and Facebook page are here for information and education and hopefully exposure to my store and painted pieces for sale- not to mention how much I learn through my customers. My focus in life is to be a decorative painter (because I love to paint!), a business woman & shop owner and my number one job- is being a mom to my miracle daughter Danni!
Now- back to my thoughts on blogging. On the flip side I am cautious when reading a blog because just like with anything from paint to politics…once you become so big – you have less time creating and have to spend more time PR’ing. And let’s face it- if you are not selling a finished piece you have to make your money somewhere- and how do you think blogger’s do that? I think about the fact- that when a blogger creates a review on a tool or product that was provided to them- and not purchased with their own hard earned cash- hmm…..how could they ever be truly honest in their review. As a hypothetical example and again, please note …..NOT related to any blogger – how many of you would go out and spend over $500 for a paint sprayer? But yet- if it was given to you to be reviewed on your site……and it only performed as good as $70 sprayer- how do you blog about that?
Well- I hope that this information is helpful and let’s you understand my perspective. I may not be the best shop keeper in the sense- I will turn down a sale if I feel there is another product or service my customer could benefit from. But I do believe I will gain a customer for life and their trust by always doing what is right!!!! So, come on in and meet me- you can then see my philosophy on life, relationships and ethics in action!
Thanks for taking a few moments out of your life to enter mine.
Trish – The Purple Painted Lady
Chalk Paint™ Questions and hopefully……Answers
What is Chalk Paint™ Decorative Paint by Annie Sloan?
Chalk Paint™ is an incredible product specifically designed for furniture, and it can be used on walls and in painting leather couches, vinyl chairs, outside of tubs, refrigerators, and exterior surfaces such as doors and shudders (like on The Purple Painted Lady’s Palmyra store.). It is a water soluble paint (meaning a major component of Chalk Paint™) is water. So, when you think of a product being GREEN…think Chalk Paint™ Decorative Paint by Annie Sloan!
Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan is also highly pigmented material that is made with little or no black. This is excellent when mixing colors since the end result will be true to hue and not muddy. Annie created it to produce an old-world, European look- but Chalk Paint™ has so much more versatility!
I don’t want my piece to be primitive or distressed- so I guess Chalk Paint™ is not for me.
Oh my- that is far from the truth! Chalk Paint™ is not a one dimensional paint! You can create many types of finishes and the paint has an incredible about of functionality within one quart. Want to create a textured surface? No problem. Want to create a super smooth surface? No problem. Want to sand your piece and get that shabby – French Country feel? No problem. But oh- you want to create a piece that will look perfectly cohesive in your modern home? NO PROBLEM! Chalk Paint™ is perfect also when you want to add depth and character versus just a plastic feeling, one dimensional surface. And it can be used to accommodate any design decor ranging from Mid-Century Modern, Contemporary to french Country, to Primitive. Your color choices and preference of how you “finish” your piece will influence what design style it will be.
Annie Sloan – being a fine artist herself, created her Chalk Paint™ based on her knowledge of paint, pigments and art history. Annie created Chalk Paint™ over 20 years ago, and in the last two decades, her Chalk Paint™ has been pushed and tested beyond probably what either you or I could imagine! So, when it comes to feeling secure in your decision to use Chalk Paint™ – know that you are not a beta test!
As for when it became available here in the US, although the paint was created over 20 years ago- it was around 2010 when Lisa Rickert – who is the proprietress of Annie Sloan Unfolded imported to use on her home in New Orleans.
What are the qualities that make Chalk Paint™ superior?
With Chalk Paint™ there is:
No Stripping
No Sanding
No Priming
and I often add……No kidding!
When you paint with latex paint – you must strip, sand and always prime! That requires a significant amount of your time and money when it comes to buying the materials to do this. Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan allows you to create a beautiful finished piece without doing all the extra work of stripping, sanding, and priming prior to painting and without sacrificing the quality. In fact- you are using a product that rivals any high end finish- and in fact- will be superior to it! The colors are beautiful, and are inspired from 18th Century European furniture. Chalk Paint™ is water soluble and has extremely low VOC’s. Due to this – it is considered a “kind” paint by Annie and virtually has no odor to it. One of The Purple Painted Lady’s Retail Partners, Blue Sky Design in Buffalo, NY only sells green building materials. And Blue Sky Design has chosen to include Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan to their suite of products! It is safe for you and the environment. <br
Ok- it states above “No Stripping, No Sanding or Priming” but you don’t believe it!
If you read this page from the beginning you realize- that I already stated this! But whenever I am doing a Home Show or festival- I will repeat this mantra over and over again. Only to have someone then immediately ask after listening, “so do I have to sand?” I know that this concept is difficult to believe- but the proof is in the pudding. So, YES!!!! Chalk Paint™ was designed to be very easy to use and it adheres to almost any surface including wood, concrete, walls, leather coaches, vinyl, washer & dryers, porcelain bathtubs …so just about anything! It can be used both outside and in. (But remember when using it for outdoor applications do NOT use wax.
Also, something amazing about Chalk Paint™- is that it provides 50% more coverage in regards to square feet of painting compared to latex.
Wax Top Coat? Why would I use wax versus polyurethane?
Chalk Paint™ is very porous and the wax will penetrate the paint and literally fuse with it making it very strong. Waxing the paint provides protection. Chalk Paint™ in nature- is a very flat chalky finish and over time could be effected by oils from your skin, stains from beverages, dirty fingertips. They can permanently stain the paint. The wax finish is what seals and protects your piece. This is a bit of a crude analogy, but if you have ever replaced the commode (toilet) in your bathroom, before placing the new commode down on the top of the sewer pipe, a thick wax ring is placed. And then, the commode goes on top of that and pressure is applied to “squish” the wax and seal it. Wax is used in many applications to protect materials. A perfect example of this is when we wax our cars.
Why should I use Annie Sloan waxes?
First off, Annie Sloan developed her waxes specifically for her Chalk Paint™ line. The wax is very smooth, like soft margarine or if you are in the south- Crisco! It is easy to use and contains very little odor. It does not contain harsh chemical solvents like quick drying agents so you are not breathing harsh chemicals into your lungs. Also, we have actually heard of other brands of waxes that have removed the paint right off the piece and can stain the paint. Annie Sloan waxes are guaranteed to work with her Chalk Paint™. And guess what- if later in life- you want to change the color of your piece- Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan goes directly over Annie Sloan Wax without sanding or priming!
I have never used wax before, how do I use it?
If you are new to waxes, it does take a little bit of getting used to, but it really is easy. The most common mistake people make is to use too much. ? If all you take away from what I say and do is this…you will be ok! SO….take note …we are not icing a cake! We are waxing furniture. So, very thin – uniform coats are best. If that is all that you remember from this hand out- you should be ok! Just like when you put moisturizer on your skin- you do not put a thick coat on, but rather a THIN coat and rub it in- so that it will be absorbed into your skin. OR when you use hair conditioner…you apply it and the do what? Rinse it off. That is because your hair will absorb what it needs. Annie’s Chalk Paint will do the same thing in regards to the wax!
CLEAR WAX- this is how I use it:
1. I take a plastic spoon and a paper plate. Using the backside of the spoon- I take a good tablespoon amount of wax out of the tin and put it on the paper plate. (Place the cover back on the tin of wax until you need more)
2. I use my wax brush and pull some of the wax from the glob (for lack of better words.) Only the tips of your wax brush should have wax on them- and not a lot!!!! A little goes a long way! Again- you are not icing a cake where you want a generous amount of thickness. We are applying the wax very thin- pressing uniformly with steady pressure- but not so much that you are bending the bristles on the wax brush. I like to use the analogy that this is similar to waxing your car…you apply the wax- BUT NOT SO MUCH that when it is time to wipe it off or buff- you need a power tool to do it! So- apply a thin layer of wax and GET IT IN THE GROOVES OF THE PAINT.
3. DIRECTION TO APPLY WAX For most pieces (except when going for that Rustic look or when you have a textured piece) I usually apply the wax in the same direction as my painted brush strokes. Or- if I use a circular motion- I still ALWAYS finish with a few clean straight finishing strokes in the direction I painted. If I was doing a dresser top- I would start at the back reaching across while standing in front of the piece and as I apply the Annie Sloan wax – I work my way toward the front as so I don’t lean into a previously waxed area. You will see where you waxed prior because it does deepen the hue of the paint a slight amount but be aware of where you just waxed, and overlap slightly as you begin your next section.
4. After a few strokes from one side to the other with the wax brush- I will notice when the wax is not covering as much- that is my queue I need more wax. But first….using a lint free cotton t-shirt (an old one from my husband or an old sheet) and I wipe off the residual wax with one or two strokes in the same direction as I just waxed. (I am not buffing the wax at this stage! Merely just removing or incorporating any small wax “crumbs” that may be present.) Again- just one or two uniformed swipes across the whole area in one sweep – and that is it.
5. Resume waxing the next area- I wax strategically – meaning in an organized direction so I do not miss a spot.
6. The wax will dry (meaning no longer be tacky to the touch within a short time….maybe an hour or two?) However a variable in the dry time is the temperature and humidity where you are located. Is it is humid and cooler- cure time will be longer. If it is taking a long time and your wax is still tacky and you are not in the rain forest- reread my warnings above regarding applying the wax thin!
Depending on the piece I am finishing- I may have different amounts of wax coats. For instance…..a dresser. I may have 2 – 3 coats of wax on the top, but only 1 coat of wax on the sides and front. 7. Once the piece is no longer tacky- if you want to have a shinier finish- buff your piece. If you like it as is- then you are done! It does not take much rubbing and the piece will be quite shiny- so pay attention and have good lighting so that you do not over do it.
8. Remember NO WAX when painting pieces for outside.
9. Surfaces that will get serious use (wear and tear) like tops of dressers and tables – should receive 2 to 3 coats of wax. Follow the procedure above – always allow wax to dry between additional coats.
I will always lead my customers on a path to get the best value from their purchase. If a person walks in and is describing an application where another product would be better- I let them know! Now when it comes to tools- in the sense of brushes – I strongly believe that wax brush is a necessary purchase if you plan on doing multiple pieces. I understand that they are not inexpensive, but if you maintain them- they will last forever and will make your waxing process much faster and from a cosmetic perspective- will significantly improve your application! I always say- this is similar to applying make up. I honestly don’t think the applicator you choose for putting on eye shadow is a big deal- but try putting blush on with a skinny brush versus a nice big soft brush and you are going to look ridiculous. Invest in a wax brush and get a professional quality finish. You will not regret it.
WHY IS WAX IMPORTANT?
The wax is important to protect the paint – like polyurethane does when using Latex. Also – in regards to water protection, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. In that case- you need something made from wax and or oil….ie.oil and water don’t mix. (and not to be too odd here- that is why when you install a new toilet- they set the piece on a very THICK wax ring) I have tested waxes that are water based and they just don’t work as they come off when you wipe them with a cloth! Petroleum wax, also known as paraffin wax, is a by-product of the petrochemical industry…it is a residual from another manufacturing process. Annie Sloan Wax upcycles… in that the petroleum by-product is used in our wax versus of it being disposed. It is a good and economical base for Annie Sloan’s wax and besides that- there is also bees wax (which comes from bees!) added to make it soft and carnauba wax (from a plant) to make it very water repellent. The paint because of its particular structure allows the wax to soak in- like quality skin lotion will on your body. This is why Chalk Paint and Annie Sloan waxes marry each other perfectly- they were created to do so and no other mixing of products will produce the same results.
Ideally- I do recommend a wax brush and that is because when you apply wax with a rag- often you will get uneven application. Why is that? To help you understand- take your two hands and press them together like you are praying. (go ahead and do it- no one is watching!) Pay attention to where the pressure is when you push your hands together. It is in the cushy part of your palm and at your fingertips…but not under your knuckles. Now you understand why people get peaks and valleys when using a rag. If you can afford a wax brush- I strongly recommend using one. You will get a much better even level of wax. So, with all that said, brush or wipe your clear wax on. I typically apply the wax in the same direction I applied the paint or taking my brush and making small circles. I do this strategically – starting at one end and working my way across the piece. I apply the wax in sections and rub off the excess before starting a new section. I typically use a lint free old white t-shirt or rags that you can buy at Lowes or Home Depot. And sometimes- I use cheesecloth to wipe off the excess wax. Once the clear wax has cured…..you can then accent areas with dark wax if you would like to, wiping off as you go. Wait until it is no longer tacky (usually a couple of hours or less) and buff to desired sheen. Wait 24 hours in between adding more layers of clear wax if you are building up a for a stronger finish. As for the application- I like to use the analogy of hair conditioner. When you wash your hair- you put on conditioner after the shampoo. And then what do you do? Immediately wash it all off! Why is that? Because your hair will absorb only what it needs and we rinse the rest away! Imagine leaving the conditioner on your hair with out washing it off- what would happen? You definitely won’t have a “Good Hair Day!”, that’s for sure!
Why do I need to wax it before I sand, that seems backwards?
There are a couple of reasons we recommend to wax first. First – let’s clarify…you apply Annie Sloan Wax and let cure….once the wax is dry- then you distress. Ok- so first….applying wax and then distressing actually gives you a lot more control when you are sanding, it allows you to expose layers of paint or wood underneath gradually. This is how you recreate that natural look of furniture that has been painted layer by layer over the years. Another reason is that the paint is, well, chalky. It can be very messy when distressing and dusty! By waxing it first, you really cut down on the dust made when sanding which is important if doing a piece in your home- which why wouldn’t you! Much more convenient than having to move it out- or perhaps it is a large hutch and you do not have enough muscle to move it. Another reason to use clear wax first is that it will protect your paint from the dark wax- if you plan on “aging” your piece. The dark wax will actually stain the paint color. Now- you may want that actual effect- and if that is the case do a test spot on the back of your piece. Otherwise- apply a coat of clear wax and let cure…..then add your dark wax.
Why do I need to use clear wax first if I want a distressed look ….shouldn’t I just use the dark wax?
Excellent question, we get this one a lot! First off, please know that the dark wax goes a LONG way, you need very little of it. Let me stress that- you need very little. The reason you clear wax first is that it will protect your paint color. The dark wax will permanently stain your paint color if the barrier of clear wax is not there. When you apply clear wax first & let cure, then dark wax, you can control how much dark wax is applied and where it goes. If you just use dark wax first, where you apply it is exactly where it goes. That is it, and that is where it stays, darkened paint and all!However- sometimes I want a piece to be very dark- so in that case- I make the choice to Dark Wax without a applying a clear wax layer prior.
My piece is way too dark I used too much Dark Wax! Now what? (How to remove Dark Wax)
I actually did this on this piece shown. I liked how the dark wax looked on the body of the dresser, but not on the top.
If you applied a base of clear wax first and have let it cure before applying the dark wax, you can actually use more clear wax as a “magic eraser.” Just get some clear wax onto a rag and use it to remove the dark wax. Wipe in the same motion as you applied the Dark Wax.
If you did not use clear wax first (like my example shown in the photo), or the dark wax has dried completely and cured, don’t worry! First try a rag with a little mineral spirits on it. It should be damp but not dripping! I like to use “real” Mineral Spirits..meaning not the “green” Mineral Spirits that has a milky white appearance. I just don’t feel it works nearly as well as the original Mineral Spirits. With a bit of Mineral Spirits on your rag, rub the piece in the direction you applied the wax. (Meaning- do not going against the grain) The mineral spirits on the rag will remove some of the Dark Wax- but it won’t restore the piece as it was before you applied the Dark Wax. For me- in regards to this dresser shown- that was just fine and I loved the look I got. However, if this was not what you had intended….you have a little more work, but all is not lost. With chalk paint, you can simply paint right over the wax and start again. No extra prep work needed. Just make sure the dark Wax has dried! You cannot repaint over freshly applied wax…clear or dark! That is like walking on quick sand- ..not good!
My wax is still tacky and will not dry, WHY?
Again, the most common mistake I have found with calls I receive is that people have applied too much wax and are not wiping off the excess.
The Purple Painted Lady will provide a hands on waxing demo if it will help you since an educated customer- is a prepared customer!
The Purple Painted Lady always recommends to apply wax with a wax brush (as explained above) and wipe off the excess! You cannot take too much wax off- but you do not want to be buffing your piece during this step either. When waxing- it is important to remember this:
We are not icing a cake! We are waxing furniture. So, very thin – uniform coats are best. If that is all that you remember from this hand out- you should be ok! Just like when you put moisturizer on your skin- you do not put a thick coat on, but rather a THIN coat and rub it in- so that it will be absorbed into your skin. OR when you use hair conditioner…you apply it and the do what? Rinse it off. That is because your hair will absorb what it needs. Annie’s Chalk Paint will do the same thing in regards to the wax! If you start buffing and find that your wax is still tacky, wait until it is no longer tacky to start buffing.
I would like a smoother finish. Mine has brush strokes on the surface.
you will probably like the end finish better.
If you have brush strokes in your paint and you do not like the look them – for your next project- try using a kitchen cabinet sponge roller. It will allow you to apply thin coats of paint.
Since Annie Sloan created Chalk Paint™ based on a desire to reproduce European charm. Depth and texture is key to the paint, making it more authentic. If, however, you would like a traditional super smooth finish, use a sponge roller to apply the paint. If that is not smooth enough, sand the surface prior to waxing with a sanding block sponge or sand paper- perhaps a 220 grit or a little higher. Or- on my “How To” page I reference using “auto body” grade sandpaper! This stuff is amazing! Use it before the wax is applied to remove some of the “ridges” left from the brush strokes.
In regards to the surface based on application, if you are more of a seasoned furniture painter, you can also use Chalk Paint™ with a paint sprayer, but you will need to thin out the paint with water to get the right viscosity.
What does it mean if the wax stays “soft” showing indentations or impressions based on placing something on top??
As with any product, it needs time to cure! While Annie Sloan products are very quick and easy to use, they do need time to cure and set up- this is beyond dry time. Many factors effect the curing time (temperature, humidity, how much wax was used, etc). But if there has been adequate “curing time” …and your wax is still sofy- that is a good indication you used too much wax. Again-or the same reasons Blue Sky Design chose to use Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan…they also choose to use her wax. Annie’s waxes do not contain harsh chemicals such as quick drying solvents. This makes them more workable as you are using them and are a lot safer to use.
I am having trouble with the under color or stain bleeding through.
Most surfaces can be covered with one coat of Chalk Paint, occasionally two is necessary. Annie likes to say that it takes one and a half coats of paint. (read my “How To” page to learn more about that technique) With that said, some pieces of furniture can be difficult to accept for any type of paint! Bleed through can occur on pieces that have been polished with oil-based polishes that include a stain like “Old English” or deep red pieces that have a mahogany stain. If bleed through is really a problem, we recommend you go back and use Zinsser Shellac! I have a whole post on my “How To” page regarding this stuff. I LOVE IT! This will act as a barrier and seal from bleeding through the paint. It will prevent water stains from bleeding through. It will help when you have a piece that smells! Seriously- if it has a musty smell or smells like cigarette smoke. Coat the whole piece using Zinsser and it will “trap” those foul smells in- and you won’t have any more issues! After the Zinsser Shellac is dry, which takes whole 5 – 8 minutes ….simply begin painting right over it! This tip also applies to when you are painting with Old White or Pure White over a dark piece. As soon as you realize- that you have bleed through- grab the Zinsser. But first- finish painting the surface you started otherwise you run the risk of seeing a “lines” or where you stopped painting. Again…. **GO TO MY “HOW TO” PAGE AND READ MY POST ON SPRAY SHELLAC. I THINK OF IT AS A MIRACLE IN A CAN) When using spray shellac- apply it to the whole piece or side- not just a spot fix! You will actually see that when you paint. TRUST ME ON THAT! Using shellac will also help if the piece stinks! Yes- I said it…the piece smells. Perhaps it was in a basement or in the home of a heavy smoker….shellac seals in whatever you do not want to smell anymore! Can you tell I love this stuff?
Chipped Paint- do I need to sand it off?
Joy Hall wrote me – I am going to start my first piece with Chalk Paint™ Decorative Paint by Annie Sloan which has been painted with an olive green paint. The paint is somewhat peeling on places. Should I sand the paint off or is OK to just paint over it? Thanks for your help. My response was – You never nee
d to sand for Chalk Paint™ to adhere- HOWEVER……..if you have loose paint- you should sand to remove what is flaking off.
Make sure that the surface is smooth and not pitted from where the paint chipped off otherwise your new top coat color will take on the profile of the piece and if it is pitted or has pockets where paint has peeled- that topography will show through the fresh paint.
Another thing I would like to share – is that you may also want to shellac the whole surface once done sanding (see image below of Adrienne who works at the shop with me…by the way this photo is of the painted dresser with the crown that I posted earlier today here on Facebook.) We just sanded the top of the dresser that had deep scratches and since both stained wood and bare wood were exposed – we used the shellac to create a barrier so that the paint went on without shadowing from the different surfaces shown. This also is a great tip when you have used wood filler…shellac after the wood filler is dry to allow the paint to be applied without any variation from the different surfaces.
I want to paint my Kitchen Cabinets with Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan.
As shown in Kitchen 2012 magazine- Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan is suggested as being the hottest paint in the DIY Blogosphere!
The Purple Painted Lady is a strategic partner with Sunny Days Painting in Rochester, New York! Painting kitchen cabinets is something we do superior together. From our experience it is best to paint kitchen cabinets using at least 2 coats of paint. Again- depending on the finish you desire, you can brush or roll. (even spray if you have the capabilities) Most of our jobs are brushed or rolled)
After painting, apply your was top coat- just like you would on a dresser. The only thing additional is that when it comes to the wear and tear a kitchen endures- if you actually cook that is…. you will want to apply two or three coats of wax to seal it. Annie’s wax is water repellent and strong and basically becomes one with the Chalk Paint™.
You may need to re-wax your cabinets in a few years based on the usage, but overall, a periodic buffing should be more than adequate to maintain a superior finish. To clean your cabinets (or furniture) just use a damp cloth to clean. Lisa Rickert has children and a dog and puts her cabinets through some serious testing… and Annie has pieces that were waxed over 10 years ago in her home.
With cabinets- depending on the age of them and the style- you may want to do a test on one regarding coverage and verify that the stain does not bleed through. If you find that the stain on the doors bleeds through your paint, please reference my site here regarding my post on Zinsser Shellac. It is on my How To page.
Would I have to strip this chair before using Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan?
I have painted chairs that were in much worse condition than that and did NOT strip. The most important part is to remove any serious loose paint. So, perhaps you may want to lightly sand the area where all the paint is chipped off in this photo. Also- – paint picks up the profile of what is already existing on the foundation. So- if you do not want it to be potentially “pocketed” or uneven due to the existing chipping- you should lightly sand that area.
Lastly- what is the price for Chalk Paint™ relative to using Latex?
The Purple Painted Lady has been painting furniture for over 10 years. In the past when I used Latex paint- I always sanded (which = $ & time), then using a tact cloth to clean what I just sanded ($ & time.) Once done with those two steps- the piece would be primed ($ & time) and then the piece would be base coated and then- finally painted. (phew- makes me tired thinking about all that I use to do) Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan costs $36.95 per quart. A quart of Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan will cover roughly 150 square feet – compared to any latex sold at Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams, Home Deport or Lowes brand paint- which will only cover at most 100 square feet.
Chalk Paint™ also dries super fast and will allow you to begin and finish a project in one day. Depending on the size of your project- you could easily finish it in one afternoon. When you add up the time, money, and paint saved, it really is worth the price! With Chalk Paint™, the average cost invested per piece (now this is dependent on the size of the pieces you are painting) but I would estimate your costs to be between $6 -$12 (that is for both the paint and wax.)
Outdoor use: I am hoping /planning on painting some outdoor wooden chairs this next week and I am wondering what you would suggest I use as a topcoat if any. I am hoping to use a few of my favourite colours to create a beautiful peaceful garden atmosphere instead of the usual stark white or wood stained patio chairs that you usually see. Thanks again, FROM Cheryl in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
To address your question— Typically- Annie recommends NO WAX if painting “outdoor” furniture such as wrought iron, Adirondack chairs- or any piece that was built to withstand the elements.
However- if you have a protected area- like an outdoor porch where the piece will be protected from the hot sun – you can wax a piece.
Another variable is typically where you are located in regards to temperatures. Being that you are in Canada- I doubt sweltering HOT heat is an issue- but keep in mind- hot sun beating through a window on to a piece of furniture or a piece sitting outside in the sun that has been waxed- the heat can reactivate the wax a bit. Now with that said- keep in mind that Annie has had her Decorative Paint Products for over 20 years and they have been used in Spain where temps can get very warm- and there has been no issues.
The last idea- is sealing the chalk paint with an outdoor polyurethane. You may want to get the spray can kind and carefully cover the whole chair uniformly. : )
I used the lacquer on my floor over Pure White Chalk Paint and it is yellowing a little, why?
If you have gotten some yellowing with the lacquer- you applied it too think. It is very important to roll it on in a thin coat using a sponge roller.
Message Body:
after reading a ton of blogs I think you know the most about ASCP. I did buy my paint from a local store and will call them tomorrow but…I still had to ask you. I’m doing my bathroom cabinets…painted with one coat of old white, sanded very heavy, waxed with clear looks great but I wanted them to be a bit darker used dk wax on 2 doors only (thank goodness) I’m not happy it made them look like they had a yellow tint. Should I remove with white mineral spirits or just paint over? I really need that dk but not happy with the yellow. My cabinets were golden oak but I bought a old mirror that had already been painted but had darker wood showing through. Any advice would be great.
Thank you,
Creative Hugs,
Lola
Without seeing an image- I am taking a guess that it wasn’t the wax that caused your problem. You mentioned Old White & Golden Oak wood stain. This two clues lead me to say that sometimes- depending the finish or the wood you are painting over- the tannins or stain can bleed through- especially when using a light colored paint like Old White or Pure White. Read the 2 posts below about Zinsser Shellac and Dark Wax. You probably should have done this from the get- go, but all is not lost.
At this point- I would wipe down the Dark Wax top coat with some Mineral spirits on a rag. Let dry thoroughly. Shellac the piece. Repaint with Old White and then wax. Clear Wax first- then Dark Wax and I would mix the Dark & Clear together a bit in a separate container.
1. Shellac Post http://www.thepurplepaintedlady.com/2012/05/what-to-do-about-water-stains-or-wood-grain-bleeding-through-paint/
2. Dark Wax http://www.thepurplepaintedlady.com/2012/07/dont-be-afraid-of-the-dark-dark-wax-by-annie-sloan-that-is/
I am getting ready to paint a table for outside. why should I not use wax for the outside??
I hope this answers your question and includes a bit more information. There are a few reason why you do not use wax outside.
First- when painting pieces that will be outside – exposed to the elements- you want the piece to be made of a material that will survive pouring rain, morning dew, and the beating sun. Chalk Paint™ is porous, it breathes and allows moisture to pass through. It is not meant to be an outdoor sealant – although it is perfectly fine for painting pieces that are meant for the outdoors. In fact- there is a local company to me that sell painted wrought iron/ metal decorative yard pieces. Their paint of choice? Chalk Paint™ Decorative Paint by Annie Sloan!
That is why it is perfect for Adirondack chairs, the front door of my shop and the stoop. Those items are built for the outside.
As for the wax- …it is wax! Heat up a candle- and what happens? It melts. Now the wax that we use for Chalk Paint™ is made up of different ingredients and it extremely durable- but if you set it outside in the baking sun of Arizona, Texas, New Mexico….it is going to get soft. For pieces outside- if you wanted to give them a top coat of OUTDOOR poly- that is fine. It is not necessary- but if it is something you want to do- you can. Keep in mind, if you take a dining room chair and paint it & poly it…and then place it outside…it is going to warp and after a year- will start to literally breakdown. Indoor wooded furniture is not made for outside- with the expanding and contracting temperatures and moisture will cause wood to do. The glue that holds furniture together will not withstand those cycles either. I hope that this information was helpful!
A LITTLE Q & A: PURE WHITE Chalk Paint™ question.
A very dear customer of mine asked…..Someone brought me some pieces to paint and said they want them WHITE. I have used old white several times, but I’m just ordering “pure white”. Do you have any suggestions? They’ve asked for a white, white piece lightly distressed. That’s my goal.
The Purple Painted Lady’s response:
(First- I apologize for the lousy photo. It was taken with my cell phone.)
You will want to use Pure White Chalk Paint™ Decorative Paint by Annie Sloan- like you ordered.
I did a king size headboard at Christmas for a woman and it came out great. Something I did not do ….and that I should have- was shellac’d the furniture using Zinsser prior to painting with the Pure White Chalk Paint™. I would have used less paint!!!
Now keep in mind- when painting a piece WHITE…and wanting that bright white..even after shellac…an average of 2 coats will be needed. So, when you compare the cost of paint to shellac = it is worth the extra step for the shellac. (and if you can spray the shellac it will not add much time to your process) This example I share was based on that in December I painted a maple wood bed. Depending on what you are painting over, some colors that have less pigment – like Pure White will require what I shared above. This is not always needed- but there are examples that will and it is important to know that.
Questions that I would have back for my customer were:
What is the state of the furniture now?
Does the customer understand- that whatever the base is- will be what you see slightly once distressed? Make sure that is ok and I don’t know about you- but I always write up a very detailed contract for custom jobs!
Lastly, for those of you who paint for others….If you can have the customer find “inspiration” photos on line that you can reference in understanding what their “end vision” is- it is extremely helpful and I recommend incorporating those photos in the contract! Otherwise- and often- people have a difficult time articulating their thoughts and you do not realize they wanted “B” until you have invested time and materials creating “A.”
Ugly Base color on Dresser- but want a distressed look…what do I do?
QUESTION: I just read your post about Annie Sloan chalk paint and it really intrigues me. I have a chest that I spray painted black (yes, spray painted! Oh the things we did 10 years ago that we wish we didn’t!) I want to paint it to go for that distressed frenchy whitewashed feel, but I don’t know where to start. Reading your blog inspired me but I need some direction on how to pick color and how to go about doing this. I am kinda a diyer, but painting is not my strong suit!
Thanks for your help!
Katy
RESPONSE:
You are first going to need to paint your piece with whichever color you want as the “base” ….then let dry … THEN Clear Wax and let dry…then top coat whichever color you want. When the top is dry, use a 220 sandpaper and lightly distress to get your shabby chic- worn feeling. Being careful to not sand through your clear wax and into the base paint- which will reveal your black spray paint. To do a WASH- read this post please.
Does that make sense???
Hope you don’t mind me writing this- I am glad to help you- Something that helps me be available to answer all of your questions that are sent either email or when you phone me through the day…and night. : ) Is your support when you purchase product. If you do not have a stockist near you and need to order something – please kindly consider The Purple Painted Lady. That is what allows me to be here and to help you. Thanks so much! ¸♥ ¸♥ ¸♥ ¸♥ http://www.thepurplepaintedlady.com/shop/
Hi Dear Purple Painted Lady
I have just painted a wardrobe and distressed it to heavily. So instead of it looking just old and aged it looks like it has been deliberately done …. which is not the look i want. How can i put this right ? unfortunately it has been waxed.
I feel for you! The only way to replace paint you have removed is to either paint it all again- which with Chalk Paint- you can do with no prep over the wax (as long as the wax has dried) OR consider- making a wash with some of your chalk paint and apply that- to tone down the distressing if you think that might work for you.
Here are steps on How To Make A Wash=> http://www.thepurplepaintedlady.com/2012/06/how-to-make-a-wash-with/
Let me know what you decided to do!!!! Thanks again and if you need to order paint- please consider placing your order with The Purple Painted Lady. That is what keeps me “employed” and able to be here to answer your questions. besides- I offer the lowest flat rate shipping of anyone!
Have another question you don’t see here? Please contact me and I will be happy to answer your question! Just email takuntz@rochester.rr.com and note “Dear Purple Painted Lady” in your subject.